Houston Brass Band

Introduction: The instrumentation of British brass bands does away with all the French horns and woodwinds found in the typical American concert band, while including some more instruments that are not normally found there. Instrumentation consists of the following: * Bb flugelhorn * Eb soprano and Bb cornets * Eb tenor horns * tenor and bass trombones * Bb baritones and euphoniums * Eb and Bb tubas * percussion A brass band typically consists of 28 to 35 players. The British-style brass band is not a new development. In the 1800s and into the 20th century, brass bands were popular in America and England. In the 20th century, the American bands began to transform into the current concert band style that is so popular in the schools today, which includes woodwinds. The British, however, kept the older brass band tradition in the form of company and community-sponsored bands. Until today, the tradition continues with lots of new music being written and bands engaging in fierce competition. Today, the British-style brass band has gained popularity in America, and there are some excellent brass bands around the country. Although there is less emphasis here on competition, organizations like the North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) hold concerts regularly.